Briggs Says Bears’ Focus On Detroit, Not Changes

CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 12: Lance Briggs #55 of the Chicago Bears awaits the start of play against the Detroit Lions during the NFL season opening game at Soldier Field on September 12, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Lions 19-14. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 12: Lance Briggs #55 of the Chicago Bears awaits the start of play against the Detroit Lions during the NFL season opening game at Soldier Field on September 12, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Lions 19-14. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

ANDREW SELIGMAN,AP Sports Writer

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) — Chicago linebacker Lance Briggs insists he is only thinking about beating the Detroit Lions and reaching the playoffs.

The idea that this could be the last go-around with his coaches and some teammates?

The seven-time Pro Bowler says he’s not thinking about what might happen if the Bears (9-6) lose Sunday at Detroit. They’re in danger of missing the playoffs for the fifth time in six years, and even if they beat the Lions, they would need help from rival Green Bay.

If they don’t reach the postseason, there is speculation that coach Lovie Smith could be gone. Brian Urlacher has an expiring contract and might be on his way out, too, but Briggs said he isn’t thinking about those possibilities.